Our Big Gig in the Aboretum was inspired by two 15-year old girls over a year ago who shared their views about living in the neighbourhood and expressed a lack of things to do for people of their age. They had a passion for music and a big idea for their local Arboretum park. After being encouraged to explore their idea and spending months trying to connect with the right people they came across the national Our Big Gig programme. In the summer of 2013 they were stood on the bandstand in the middle of the park addressing over 500 people who had come to enjoy the music festival they had put on. This success spurred them on to make Our Big Gig in the Arboretum 2014 even bigger. The 2014 event saw around 1000 people attend to enjoy a fantastic day of local talent! We hope that this year's Big Gig is bigger and better than ever!!!
What we'll deliver:
- We want Our Big Gig in the Arboretum to grow and continue to benefit the local area as well as the wider city.
- We want our event to be open to everyone and with something for all ages to do.
- We want to get more young people involved to give them the opportunity to lead on a big project that appeals to many.
- We want to raise money to make sure we can do this event again this year!
Why it's a great idea:
This is a great idea because here in Lincoln, a small city, there isn't another annual event like this. We believe the huge success which has already snowballed from year one to year two is down to the fact we are offering something different in the city. We are making use of a beautiful but underused park in the city, which often holds a negative perception. We are making use of the old Victorian bandstand and the rest of the park! It also offers a fun day which is suitable for everyone with lots to do.We want to challenge the negative perception by offering opportunities to people to enjoy the park and see its potential. We want to show more 15-year olds that they CAN do something and they can take action on their dreams and ambitions.
Steps to get it done:
- We have successfully ran the event for two years and we hope this year will involve even more people.
- We want to see more volunteers and people attending the event on the day.
- This event runs because residents take the lead and do the work. This way we believe it has longevity & will continue!
- We will have regular meetings in which we will discuss and plan the day so everything runs smoothly.
